Archive for the ‘Uganda’ Category

Entebbe is a city in Wakiso District of Uganda situated about 23 miles southwest of Kampala, Uganda’s capital and largest city. The city is home to Entebbe’s International Airport, and sits on the northern shores of Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake. As of latest measurement the city has a population of 75 thousand people.

Entebbe is a popular travel destinations for travelers heading to the capital city Kampala, reasoning is that Entebbe International Airport is the main entrance to Uganda from international destinations. Although it’s just an hour drive, it might be a good idea sticking around in Entebbe for a day or two as city is underestimated by a lot of travelers. It’s an medium sized city with easy and fast transportation on Boda boda motorcycle taxi, yet its dangerous and a lot of accidents happen. Hiring a taxi from a trust source such as hotel, friend of company may be wiser. Walking around is possible too, as the streets are safe, and old colonial gardens and parks generate a relaxed ambiance.

When in the city you can visit several sightseeing’s such as museums, art galleries but also shopping malls and nightlife areas. A few sightseeing’s include the extensive National Botanical Gardens, Uganda Wildlife Education Center, Nkumba Univeristy and also the location of the State House which is the official residence of the President of Uganda. As earlier mentioned this city is underestimated and of perfect size for a day or two to learn more about the Uganda history, enjoy a few sightseeing’s and get familiar with the Ugandan people.

The visa policy in Uganda follows the principle of reciprocity, where countries that require visas for Ugandans are also required to present visas to enter Uganda. Those with US passports need an entry visa to visit Uganda. The same applies to naturalized American citizens of Ugandan descent. Single-entry visas will cost around $50 and applications can be processed at the Ugandan embassy or at various entry points.

Kampala is the capital and largest city of Uganda. It replaced Entebbe as the national capital of Uganda in 1962 and is now the country’s administrative, commercial, communications, and transportation center. Built on and surrounded by seven hills, Kampala is home to more than 2 million people.

Kampala is known for its lush greenery interspersed with modern buildings, all buzzing with life. This city is known for its interesting mix of establishments ranging from traditional to trendy restaurants, fashionable shopping places, and a bustling nighttime entertainment scene. African culture is very alive in Kampala, especially in the markets of Owino and Nakasero, where locals, dressed in traditional African attire, all flock to gather for the day’s produce. Cultural events are also not hard to find in the city. The city’s residents speak English, Swahili, and Luganda, although local tribal dialects are also widely spoken in the suburbs.

The safest and most convenient way to get around the city is by commuter taxi, since the move to a city bus service which has long been in the works has not yet been implemented by the government. Another popular mode of transportation is the boda-bodas — motorcycles that offer more accessibility, especially in areas of heavy traffic. Rentals are also widely available but tourists are often advised not to drive after sundown to avoid car thefts and highway banditry. Tourists are advised against using their credit cards because credit card fraud is rampant in the city.

The visa policy in Uganda follows the principle of reciprocity, where countries that require visas for Ugandans are also required to present visas to enter Uganda. Those with US passports need an entry visa to visit Uganda. The same applies to naturalized American citizens of Ugandan descent. Single-entry visas will cost around $50 and applications can be processed at the Ugandan embassy or at various entry points.